About PDR » About Playa Del Rey

About Playa Del Rey

PDR School

Gifted and Talented (GATE)

The GATE program, for identified gifted and talented students, at Playa del Rey Elementary works to create academically enriched learning opportunities for our students. Our GATE Coordinator, Chryssa Elliott, works with the entire staff to plan differentiation, projects and assignments for the needs of our gifted learners. Universal themes, depth and complexity along with Bloom’s Taxonomy higher level thinking skills are evident throughout every classroom. We also have excellent resources for teachers to enhance student learning.  Periodically throughout the school year, the GATE Coordinator and GATE parents meet to review curriculum and discuss support for the students involved in the program.

General Information

Enrollment Requirements
You may apply for a permit to Playa del Rey, but space is extremely limited. After receiving enrollment forms from neighborhood residents, the principal will consider the applications of those who do not live within the school’s attendance area and decide whether the school is in a position to grant any permits.

For more about the 2022-2023 school year, view here.

Age Requirements
Transitional Kindergarten - child must be 5 years old between Sept. 2-December 2nd ;
Kindergarten - child must be 5 years old on or before Sept. 1st ;
First Grade - child must be 6 years old on or before Sept. 1st

Enrollment forms will be available in the school office to those who live within the Playa del Rey Elementary attendance area.  You must present proof of residence, such as a utility bill, a rental agreement or a property tax bill; as well as an original birth certificate, passport or baptismal certificate; and an immunization record for the child you wish to enroll. Enrollment packets will be available from the office in the spring.  

Classroom Sizes
K-3rd grade is typically 22-24/classroom; 4th-5th grade is about 28-30/classroom.

Breakfast and Lunch
View our School Meal Program.

Before or After School Care on Campus

Beyond the Bell Branch (BTB) Youth Development Program is a provider of comprehensive after school program services, comprised of three major components (Academic Assistance, Recreation and Enrichment).  Each Youth Development Program provides a unique, wholesome experience for students at participating elementary school sites.  It provides an exciting after school enrichment program in a safe, well-supervised environment that engages and encourages students to achieve their greatest potential. In addition students can sign up for a variety of enrichment activities and programs through STAR (Science, Theater, Arts & Recreation) and Mad Science. (see our After School page) YDP serves K through 5th grade students. Hours are 2:35 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. For more information, contact YDP Program Director at (310) 827-3560.

Parent Volunteers

There are several active parent groups on campus. Friends of Playa is the largest. We urge every family to join and be as active as you can be.  We also have English Learner Advisory Committee (ELAC), Governance Council and School Site Council. There are plenty of opportunities to make a difference and many parents find that getting involved is as rewarding for them as it is for their child.

We understand that with inclement weather, all students are more susceptible to illnesses. Here are some tips to keep your child healthy during the inclement season:

  • Make sure your child comes to school with proper outdoor attire when he/she leaves for school in the morning. 
  • Remind your child to wash his/her hands regularly. Proper hand washing can help protect your child against germs and viral infections that can be spread within his/her surroundings.
  • Make sure your child eats healthy foods for proper nutrition, such as vegetables, fruits, nuts, fish and milk.  These healthy nutrients will strengthen your child’s immune system.

REMEMBER:  A rainy day is NOT an excuse to be absent!  Ensuring your child comes to school on rainy days will communicate to your child that school attendance is important to YOU.  This will help your child build positive attendance habits that will help him/her succeed!

Learning about the Curriculum

Each year, Playa del Rey invites all parents to Back to School Night once the children have had a chance to get settled into their classrooms and begin their instruction. This event gives parents the opportunity to meet with their children’s teachers, tour the classroom, and discuss the academic goals set for the coming year. Each teacher will give a brief presentation about the curriculum and the class.

Parent Conferences

Just before the Winter break your child’s teacher will schedule a private conference to discuss your child’s progress. You will also have the option to schedule a second conference in the Spring. If you have concerns, you are welcome to schedule a conference at any time during the year.

Immunization Policy

Children must have required immunizations before they can attend school in California. Parent/Guardian must present their child’s Immunization Record to school staff as proof of immunization prior to admission. Exemptions to the immunization requirement are provided for medical or personal reasons.